Question

In FEM, which method is not used to construct the weak forms and associated finite element model of the plane elasticity equations?

(a) Principle of virtual displacements

(b) The principle of minimum total potential energy

(c) Weak form of governing differential equations

(d) Hamiltonian principle

The question was asked in my homework.

My question is based upon Plane Elasticity topic in section Plane Elasticity of Finite Element Method

Answer 1

Right option is (d) Hamiltonian principle

Easiest explanation: There are two different ways of constructing the weak forms and associated finite element model of the plane elasticity equations. The first one uses the principle of virtual displacements (or the principle of minimum total potential energy), while the second approach follows a three-step procedure to obtain a weak form of governing differential equations.